The Cotswolds

Day 3 and 4 did not disappoint. Yesterday we set out on a 6 mile loop hike through open fields, forests and ending on the high street in Burford. It was an “epic” hike per Hudson. We wandered through a huge field/hill, eventually found the path and then stumbled on a small church called St. Oswald’s in Winford out in the middle of the forest part of the walk. No town around, no houses anywhere. We went into the church, which dated back to the 12-13th century and saw preserved paintings on the walls that were just as old. Such a cool find. After a few miles we ended up on the high street, enjoyed the shops and lunch at a pub called The Angel. We headed back home for movie night and much later, pizza and some much needed rest.

This morning we slept in and cooked breakfast and headed up to Bourton-on-the-water. Supposedly the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds,’ but I don’t think that anyone who thinks this has ever been to Venice. This was the most touristy town so far with tons of people in the streets and along the banks of the river that runs through the high street. We first stopped at the Dragonfly maze, which was surprisingly fun and the man who owned it a true delight. We walked around town, in and out of shops and then grabbed a snack at a pub on the river.

Next we backtracked to a National Trust property called Sherborne Park Estates that we stumbled upon on the way to town (bc our Huddy Buddy was carsick). It had nice reviews and we ended up doing a nearly 4 mile hike through the property. A lot of it was forest hiking, which is Joce’s favorite. After the hike we ditched the car at home and walked the river to town and had dinner at the Bull Hotel. Very nice food, meh service. Back home to hang out on our last night and heading back tomorrow. We all agree that this was the relaxed, outdoor trip that we all needed. June is full of concerts (TAYLOR, Kings of Leon, Pearl Jam and the National) and the kids will be done with Summer Term before we know it!Read more